Hydrogen and oxygen generator

ABSTRACT

A hydrogen and oxygen generator has two end plates, at least two electrode assemblies defining an electrolysis chamber therebetween and being disposed between the two end plates, and at least one fastener connecting the two end plates together. Each electrode assembly has a plate defining an electrode portion having a perimeter and defining inlet and outlet apertures, an inlet insulating grommet disposed in the inlet aperture and covering an edge thereof, an outlet insulating grommet disposed in the outlet aperture and covering an edge thereof, and an insulating band disposed around the electrode portion and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining the perimeter. The insulating bands of the at least two electrode assemblies abut each other. The inlet and outlet apertures of the at least two electrode assemblies fluidly communicate with the electrolysis chamber. An electrode assembly and a hydrogen and oxygen generation system are also disclosed.

CROSS-REFERENCE

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/042,397, filed Aug. 27, 2014, the entirety of whichis incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

The present technology relates to hydrogen and oxygen generators.

BACKGROUND

One known method of generating hydrogen and oxygen is throughelectrolysis. In its most basic form, two electrodes are placed in waterand electrical power is applied to the electrodes. As a result, hydrogenforms at the cathode and oxygen forms at the anode. However, theelectrolysis of pure water requires a lot of energy. To facilitate theelectrolysis process, and reduce the amount of energy required, awater-soluble electrolyte is typically added to the water to form anelectrolyte solution.

To increase the production of hydrogen and oxygen, a generatorconsisting of a stack of spaced electrodes can be used. In someimplementations, the stack of electrodes is submerged in electrolytesolution. However, this design is impractical for applications where thegenerator may need to be moved.

In other implementations, each electrode has an inlet aperture and anoutlet aperture defined therein and each adjacent pair of electrodes isseparated by a gasket sandwiched between the electrodes. Multiplefasteners hold and compress the stack of electrodes and gasketstogether. As a result, an electrolysis chamber is formed between eachpair of adjacent electrodes and their associated gasket. The electrolytesolution flows through the inlet apertures of each electrode to fill theelectrolysis chambers. Electrical power is applied to the electrodes asa result of which hydrogen and oxygen form on the electrodes. Thehydrogen and oxygen flow out of the electrolysis chambers via the outletapertures.

One of the inconveniences of the above implementation resides in itscomplicated and lengthy assembly. The formation of the stack byalternatingly placing an electrode then a gasket is time consuming.Also, all of the elements of the stack must be perfectly aligned formaximum efficiency which can be difficult to achieve. Finally, to insurethat the generator does not leak, multiple fasteners have to be used tohold and compress the stack together.

Therefore, it would be desirable to have a hydrogen and oxygen generatorthat is easier and faster to assemble.

Another one of the inconveniences of the above implementation resultsfrom the presence of exposed sharp edges on the electrode. The outerperimeter of the electrode and the edges forming the perimeter of theapertures in the electrode are sharp edges causing electrical fields ofhigher intensity to form at these locations. This results in more heatbeing generated at the sharp edges thereby heating the electrolytesolution, faster corrosion of the electrodes at these location anddecreased efficiency of the generator. One solution consists in adding acooling system to cool the electrolyte solution, but this decreases theefficiency of the generator due to the power required to operate thecooling system.

In addition to the above inconveniences associated with the sharp edgeson the electrode, another inconvenience due to the sharp edges appearswhen the electrodes are connected in series. In many implementations,all the inlet apertures are aligned with each other and all the outletapertures are aligned with each other to facilitate the flow of fluidtherethrough. The exposed edges of the apertures form a preferredelectrical path. As such, the electrical current will jump from apertureto aperture, effectively bypassing the electrodes where no electricalpower is directly applied. This is sometimes referred to as leakagecurrent. One solution consists in misaligning the apertures, therebyreducing the amount of leakage current by breaking the straightelectrical path. However, this makes fluid flow through the generatordifficult. Also, each misaligned aperture forms a region where the twoelectrodes disposed on either side of the electrode having themisaligned aperture face each other. Thus, in this region, the voltagedifference is twice the voltage difference that exists between twoadjacent electrodes, thus increasing corrosion in this region.

Therefore, it would be desirable to have a generator that addresses atleast some of the inconveniences associated with the presence of sharpedges on the electrodes.

SUMMARY

It is an object of the present technology to ameliorate at least some ofthe inconveniences present in the prior art.

According to one aspect of the present technology, there is provided anelectrode assembly for a hydrogen and oxygen generator having a platedefining an electrode portion, the electrode portion having a perimeter,the electrode portion defining an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture,an inlet insulating grommet disposed in the inlet aperture and coveringan edge of the electrode portion defining the inlet aperture, an outletinsulating grommet disposed in the outlet aperture and covering an edgeof the electrode portion defining the outlet aperture, and an insulatingband disposed around the electrode portion and covering an edge of theelectrode portion defining the perimeter.

In some implementations of the present technology, the inlet insulatinggrommet, the outlet insulating grommet and the insulating band areintegral.

In some implementations of the present technology, the outlet apertureis disposed closer to an upper end of the electrode portion than theinlet aperture.

In some implementations of the present technology, the electrode portionis generally rectangular. The inlet and outlet apertures are disposed atdiagonally opposite corners of the electrode portion.

In some implementations of the present technology, the plate has aconnector portion. The connector portion extending from the electrodeportion. The connector portion extending through the insulating band.

In some implementations of the present technology, a thickness of theinsulating band is greater than a thickness of at least a portion of theinlet insulating grommet. The thickness of the insulating band isgreater than a thickness of at least a portion the outlet insulatinggrommet.

In some implementations of the present technology, the plate has a firstface and a second face. The insulating band has a first face disposed afirst distance from the first face of the plate and a second facedisposed a second distance from the second face of the plate. The inletinsulating grommet has a first face disposed a third distance from thefirst face of the plate and a second face disposed a fourth distancefrom the second face of the plate. The outlet insulating grommet has afirst face disposed a fifth distance from the first face of the plateand a second face disposed a sixth distance from the second face of theplate. The first distance is greater than the third and fifth distances.The second distance is greater than the fourth and sixth distances.

In some implementations of the present technology, the insulating bandhas at least one first rib extending away from a first face of the plateand at least one second rib extending away from a second face of theplate.

In some implementations of the present technology, the electrode portiondefines at least one fastener aperture configured to receive a fastenertherethrough. The electrode assembly also has at least one fasteneraperture insulating grommet disposed in the at least one fasteneraperture. Each of the at least one fastener aperture insulating grommetcovers an edge of the electrode portion defining a corresponding one ofthe at least one fastener aperture.

In some implementations of the present technology, the at least onefastener aperture is a single fastener aperture and the at least onefastener aperture insulating grommet is a single fastener apertureinsulating grommet.

In some implementations of the present technology, the single fasteneraperture is defined at a center of the electrode portion.

In some implementations of the present technology, a thickness of theinsulating band and a thickness of the at least one fastener apertureinsulating grommet are equal.

In some implementations of the present technology, the outlet apertureis a first outlet aperture. The electrode portion defines a secondoutlet aperture. The outlet insulating grommet is a first outletinsulating grommet. The electrode assembly also has a second outletinsulating grommet disposed in the second outlet aperture and coveringan edge of the electrode portion defining the second outlet aperture.

In some implementations of the present technology, the inlet aperture isa first inlet aperture. The electrode portion defines a second inletaperture. The inlet insulating grommet is a first inlet insulatinggrommet. The electrode assembly also has a second inlet insulatinggrommet disposed in the second inlet aperture and covering an edge ofthe electrode portion defining the second inlet aperture.

According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provideda hydrogen and oxygen generator having first and second endplates, atleast two electrode assemblies, the at least two electrode assembliesdefining an electrolysis chamber therebetween, the at least twoelectrodes assemblies being disposed between the first and secondendplates, and at least one fastener connecting the first endplate tothe second endplate. Each of the at least two electrode assemblies has aplate defining an electrode portion, the electrode portion having aperimeter, the electrode portion defining an inlet aperture and anoutlet aperture, an inlet insulating grommet disposed in the inletaperture and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining theinlet aperture, an outlet insulating grommet disposed in the outletaperture and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining theoutlet aperture, and an insulating band disposed around the electrodeportion and covering an edge of the electrode portion defining theperimeter. The insulating bands of the at least two electrode assembliesabut each other. The inlet and outlet apertures of the at least twoelectrode assemblies fluidly communicate with the electrolysis chamber.

In some implementations of the present technology, the at least twoelectrode assemblies is at least three electrode assemblies disposedadjacent to each other in a pile. Each pair of adjacent electrodeassemblies of the at least three electrode assemblies defines anelectrolysis chamber therebetween. The insulating bands of each pair ofadjacent electrode assemblies of the at least three electrode assembliesabut each other.

In some implementations of the present technology, a first insulatingplate is disposed between the first endplate and the at least twoelectrode assemblies. A second insulating plate is disposed between thesecond endplate and the at least two electrode assemblies. The first andsecond insulating plates are made of a dielectric material.

In some implementations of the present technology, for each of the atleast two electrode assemblies, the inlet insulating grommet, the outletinsulating grommet and the insulating band are integral.

In some implementations of the present technology, for each of the atleast two electrode assemblies: the electrode portion is generallyrectangular, and the inlet and outlet apertures are disposed atdiagonally opposite corners of the electrode portion.

In some implementations of the present technology, for at least two ofthe at least two electrode assemblies: the plate has a connectorportion, the connector portion extends from the electrode portion, andthe connector portion extends through the insulating band.

In some implementations of the present technology, for each of the atleast two electrode assemblies: a thickness of the insulating band isgreater than a thickness of at least a portion of the inlet insulatinggrommet, and the thickness of the insulating band is greater than athickness of at least a portion the outlet insulating grommet.

In some implementations of the present technology, the first and secondendplates each define a single fastener aperture. For each of the atleast two electrode assemblies: the electrode portion defines a singlefastener aperture, and a fastener aperture insulating grommet isdisposed in the fastener aperture and covers an edge of the electrodeportion defining the fastener aperture. The fastener apertures of thefirst and second endplates and of the at least two electrode assembliesare coaxial. The at least one fastener is a single fastener passingthrough the fastener apertures of the first and second endplates and ofthe at least two electrode assemblies for connecting the first endplate,the second endplate and the at least two electrode assemblies together.

In some implementations of the present technology, the fastener apertureinsulating grommets of the at least two electrode assemblies abut eachother.

According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provideda hydrogen and oxygen generation system having the above generator andoptionally one or more of its above implementations, a reservoir forstoring an electrolyte solution; a pump for supplying electrolytesolution from the reservoir to the electrolysis chamber via at least oneinlet aperture, at least one outlet aperture being fluidly connected tothe reservoir for supplying hydrogen, oxygen and electrolyte solution tothe reservoir from the electrolysis chamber, the reservoir having anoutlet for supplying at least one of hydrogen and oxygen to a device,and a power source electrically connected to at least two of the atleast two electrode assemblies.

In some implementations of the present technology, the generator furtheralso has a housing disposed between the first and second endplates. Theat least two electrode assemblies are housed in the housing. The housingdefines an air inlet and an air outlet. The plate of each of the atleast two electrode assemblies also has a cooling fin portion. For eachof the at least two electrode assemblies the insulating band is disposedbetween the electrode portion and the cooling fin portion. The hydrogenand oxygen generation system also has an air blower fluidly connected tothe air inlet for blowing air inside the housing. The air flowing overthe cooling fins and exiting the housing via the air outlet.

In some implementations of the present technology, the plate of each ofthe at least two electrodes defines at least one coolant aperture. Thecoolant apertures fluidly communicate with each other to define acoolant passage. The coolant passage is fluidly separate from theelectrolysis chamber. The hydrogen and oxygen generation system also hasa coolant pump for supplying coolant to the coolant passage.

According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provideda hydrogen and oxygen generator having a first endplate defining asingle fastener aperture, a second endplate defining a single fasteneraperture, and at least two electrodes. The at least two electrode definean electrolysis chamber therebetween. The at least two electrodes aredisposed between the first and second endplates. Each of the at leasttwo electrodes defines: an inlet aperture, an outlet aperture, and asingle fastener aperture. The inlet and outlet apertures of the at leasttwo electrodes fluidly communicate with the electrolysis chamber. Thefastener apertures of the first and second endplates and of the at leasttwo electrodes are coaxial. The generator also has at least one sealingelement disposed between each a pair of adjacent electrodes of the atleast two electrodes, and a single fastener passing through the fastenerapertures of the first and second endplates and of the at least twoelectrodes for connecting the first endplate, the second endplate andthe at least two electrodes together.

In some implementations of the present technology, the single fasteneris a sole means for connecting the first endplate, the second endplateand the at least two electrodes together.

In some implementations of the present technology, the fastenerapertures of the first and second endplates and of the at least twoelectrodes are disposed in a center of the first and second endplatesand of the at least two electrodes.

In some implementations of the present technology, each electrode has afastener aperture insulating grommet disposed in the single fasteneraperture.

In some implementations of the present technology, the fastener apertureinsulating grommets of the at least two electrode abut each other.

Embodiments of the present technology each have at least one of theabove-mentioned object and/or aspects, but do not necessarily have allof them. It should be understood that some aspects of the presenttechnology that have resulted from attempting to attain theabove-mentioned object may not satisfy this object and/or may satisfyother objects not specifically recited herein.

Additional and/or alternative features, aspects and advantages ofembodiments of the present technology will become apparent from thefollowing description, the accompanying drawings and the appendedclaims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the present technology, as well as otheraspects and further features thereof, reference is made to the followingdescription which is to be used in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, where:

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a hydrogen and oxygen generationsystem including electronic and electrical components associatedtherewith;

FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of a hydrogen and oxygen generator;

FIG. 3 is an end view of the generator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the generator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the generator of FIG. 2, takenthrough line 5-5 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is an end view of an endplate of the generator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is an end view of an insulating plate of the generator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an electrode assembly of the generatorof FIG. 2;

FIG. 9 is an end view of a stack of electrode assemblies of analternative implementation of the generator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the stack of electrode assembliesof FIG. 9 taken through line 10-10 of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the stack of electrode assembliesof FIG. 9 taken through line 11-11 of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is an end view of a plate of one of the electrode assemblies ofFIG. 9;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an outer edge of a stack ofelectrode assemblies of an alternative implementation of the generatorof FIG. 2;

FIG. 14 is an end view of an alternative embodiment of an electrodeassembly;

FIG. 15 is a side view of the electrode assembly of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a close-up view of portion 16-16 of the electrode assembly ofFIG. 14;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the electrode assembly of FIG. 14taken through line 17-17 of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a side view of a stack of electrode assemblies of FIG. 14;

FIG. 19 is an end view of the stack of electrode assemblies of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the stack of electrode assembliesof FIG. 18 taken through line 20-20 of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is an end view of an alternative implementation of an electrodeassembly;

FIG. 22 is an end view of a stack of electrode assemblies using analternative implementation of electrode assemblies;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the stack of electrode assembliesof FIG. 22 taken through line 23-23 of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is a schematic representation of an alternative implementationof a hydrogen and oxygen generation system;

FIG. 25 is an exploded view of a hydrogen and oxygen generator suitablefor use with the generation system of FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is a side view of an endplate of the generator of FIG. 25;

FIG. 27 is an end view of an endplate of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a side view of an insulating plate of the generator of FIG.25;

FIG. 29 is an end view of the insulating plate of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is an end view of a stack of electrode assemblies of thegenerator of FIG. 25;

FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of the stack of electrode assembliesof FIG. 30 taken through line 31-31 of FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of the stack of electrode assembliesof FIG. 30 taken through line 32-32 of FIG. 30;

FIG. 33A is a view of an end of an electrode assembly of the generatorof FIG. 34;

FIG. 33B is a view of another end of the electrode assembly of FIG. 33A;

FIG. 34 is an end view of an alternative implementation of a hydrogenand oxygen generator suitable for use with the generation system of FIG.24;

FIG. 35A is a cross-sectional view of the generator of FIG. 34 takenthrough line 35A-35A of FIG. 34;

FIG. 35B is a cross-sectional view of the generator of FIG. 34 takenthrough line 35B-35B of FIG. 34;

FIG. 36 is a schematic representation of an alternative implementationof a hydrogen and oxygen generation system;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of an air cooled hydrogen and oxygengenerator;

FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of the generator of FIG. 37 takenthrough line 38-38 of FIG. 37;

FIG. 39 is an end view of an electrode assembly of the generator of FIG.37;

FIG. 40 is a schematic representation of an alternative implementationof a hydrogen and oxygen generation system;

FIG. 41 is an end view of a water cooled hydrogen and oxygen generator;

FIG. 42 is a side view of the generator of FIG. 41;

FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view of the generator of FIG. 41 takenthrough line 43-43 of FIG. 42;

FIG. 44 is an end view of an electrode assembly of the generator of FIG.41; and

FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view of the electrode assembly of FIG. 44taken through line 45-45 of FIG. 44.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to FIG. 1, a hydrogen and oxygen generation system 10including electronic and electrical components associated therewith willbe described. The system has a reservoir 12. The reservoir 12 stores anelectrolyte solution. The electrolyte solution is a mixture of water andelectrolyte. The electrolyte can be a salt, a base or an acid. The typeof electrolyte used depends on material used for the components incontact with the electrolyte, as well as the gas to be evolved from thegenerator 24. The reservoir 12 can be filled via a filler neck 14. Inone implementation, the reservoir 12 is filled manually. In alternativeimplementation, the reservoir 12 can be filled automatically using apump 16 as will be discussed below. The reservoir 12 has an outlet 18 ata bottom thereof. A pump 20 pumps the electrolyte solution from thereservoir 12 via the outlet 18 and supplies, via a filtering device (notshown), the solution to an inlet 22 of a hydrogen and oxygen generator24. The inlet 22 of the generator 24 is disposed near a bottom thereof.Various implementations of the generator 24 will be described in greaterdetail below.

The generator 24 is powered by a direct current power drive 26 such asone or more batteries. It is contemplated that the direct current powerdrive 26 could be replaced by an alternating current power driveconnected to a rectifier which is then connected to the generator 24. Itis also contemplated that the power drive 26 could include a waveformgenerator targeted for specific effect and/or better overall efficiencyof the reaction. The generator 24, through electrolysis, forms hydrogengas and oxygen gas. Some water vapor is also formed. The hydrogen andoxygen gases, the water vapor, and electrolyte solution leave thegenerator 24 via an outlet 28 and are returned to the reservoir 12 viaan inlet 30 of the reservoir 12. The liquid electrolyte solution fallsinto the electrolyte solution contained in the reservoir 12. Thehydrogen gas, the oxygen gas and water vapor remain in the top portionof the reservoir 12 above the electrolyte solution. Any hydrogen gas,oxygen gas that might have been entrained into the electrolyte solutionbubbles to the surface and flows to the top portion of the reservoir 12.

The hydrogen gas, oxygen gas and water vapor in the top portion of thereservoir 12 flows out of the reservoir 12 via a gas outlet 32 in thetop of the reservoir 12. From the gas outlet the hydrogen gas, oxygengas and water vapor flow to a water condensation unit 34. It iscontemplate that the water condensation unit 34 could be an activecondensation unit or a passive condensation unit. The condensation unit34 causes the water vapor to return to liquid form. A valve 36 allowsthe liquid water to be removed from the condensation unit 34. Thehydrogen and oxygen gases flow out of the condensation unit 34 and passthrough a pressure regulator 38 and a flame arrestor 40. It iscontemplated that a PID controller and a pressure transducer could beused to control the amount of current supplied to the generator 24 inorder to maintain a targeted pre-set gas pressure in the system. Thehydrogen and oxygen gases can then be used for various purposes. Forexample, the hydrogen and oxygen gases can be supplied to an oxyhydrogenwelding torch.

To control the operation of the generation system 10, a control unit 42receives inputs from various sensors. The control unit 42 is connectedto the power drive 26 to modulate and control the current sent to thegenerator 24 from the power source 44, such as the power grid, agenerator or a battery pack for example. The control unit 42 receivessignals from a current sensor 46 sensing a current being supplied by thepower drive 26 to the generator 24. It is contemplated that the currentsensor 46 could be integrated in the power drive 26. The control unit 42is connected to the pump 20 to control its operation. The control unit42 receives signals from a pressure sensor 48 sensing a pressure of thegases exiting the reservoir 12. Based on this signal, the control unit42 can send a signal to the power drive 26 to adjust, stop or start thecurrent supply to the generator 24 or send a signal to a valve 50 toopen to release pressure should it be too high. The valve 50 can also beopened to purge the gases from the system 10 when it is no longer beingused. Note that the valve 50 has been shown away from the line extendingfrom the reservoir 12 to the condensation unit 34 for convenience, butthe valve 50 fluidly communicates with this line. It is contemplatedthat the pressure sensor 48 could be replaced by a pressure switch. Thecontrol unit 42 receives signals from a temperature sensor 52 sensing atemperature of the electrolyte solution in the reservoir 12. Based onthis signal, the control unit 42 can control the operation of a coolingsystem 54 for cooling the electrolyte solution, some implementations ofwhich will be described below. It is contemplated that the control unit42 could also control an active gas cooling/water condensing unit tocapture and remove water vapor present in the generated gas. The controlunit 42 can also control the operation of a cooling device 56, such as afan, for cooling the electronic components. In a system 10 where thereservoir 12 can be automatically refilled, the control unit 42 receivessignals from a fluid level sensor 58 sensing a level of the electrolytesolution in the reservoir 12. Based on this signal, the control unit 42can control the operation of a pump 16, which when turned on, pumpselectrolyte solution into the reservoir 12 via the filler neck 14. Inorder for a user to view data received by the control unit 42 and toadjust how the control unit 42 should control the system 10, the controlunit 42 is connected to a user interface 60.

Turning now to FIGS. 2 to 8, a hydrogen and oxygen generator 100 will bedescribed. The generator 100 is an implementation of the generator 24 ofthe system 10 described above. The generator 100 has five electrodeassemblies 102 disposed side-by-side, which are disposed between twoinsulating plates 104, which are disposed between two endplates 106. Itis contemplated that there could be two, three, four or more than fiveelectrode assemblies 102. It is also contemplated that the insulatingplates 104 could be omitted and that their function could by performedby modified implementations of the endplates 106. The electrodeassemblies 102, the insulating plates 104 and the endplates 106 are allgenerally square with rounded corners, but other shapes such asrectangular and circular are contemplated.

As can be seen in FIG. 6, each endplate 106 defines an aperture 108 in alower corner thereof and an aperture 110 in an upper corner thereof. Theapertures 108, 110 are disposed in diagonally opposite corners of theendplate 106. However it is contemplated that the apertures 108, 110could be disposed elsewhere along the lower and upper portions of theendplate 106. The apertures 108, 110 are surrounded by flanges 112. Eachendplate 106 also defines a central aperture 114 surrounded by a flange116. Each endplate 106 also has a flange 118 following its periphery.Each endplate 106 also has ribs 120 extending radially from the flange116 to the flange 118 or one of the flanges 112, as the case may be. Theflanges 108, 110, 112 and 118 and the ribs 120 are disposed on theoutwardly facing side of each endplate 106. The inwardly facing side ofthe endplate 106 is flat. The flanges 108, 110, 112 and 118 and the ribs120 increase the strength and rigidity of the endplates 106. It iscontemplate that one or more of the flanges 108, 110, 112 and 118 andthe ribs 120 could be omitted. The endplates 106 are made of a rigidmaterial such as aluminum or steel. It is also contemplated that theendplates 106 could be made of plastic or composite material.

As can be seen in FIG. 7, each insulating plate 104 defines an aperture122 in a lower corner thereof and an aperture 124 in an upper cornerthereof. The apertures 122, 124 are disposed in diagonally oppositecorners of the insulating plate 104. The apertures 122, 124 are coaxialwith the apertures 108, 110 of the endplates 106. Each insulating plate104 also defines a central aperture 126 that is coaxial with the centralapertures 114 of the endplates 106. Both the inwardly and outwardlyfacing sides of the insulating plates 104 are flat. The insulatingplates 104 are made of dielectric material. Most plastics are dielectricmaterials. As such, the insulating plates 104 prevent the electricalcurrent applied to the electrode assemblies to flow to the endplates106. It is contemplated that the insulating plates 104 could also bemade of a non-dielectric, but electrically insulating material. It iscontemplated that the endplates 106 could be made of a dielectric orelectrically insulating material, in which case the insulating plates104 could be omitted.

As can be seen in FIG. 8, each electrode assembly 102 has a plate 128.The plate 128 has an electrode portion 130 and a connector portion 132.The electrode portion 130 defines an inlet aperture 134 in a lowercorner thereof and an outlet aperture 136 in an upper corner thereof.The apertures 134, 136 are disposed in diagonally opposite corners ofthe electrode portion 130. The apertures 134, 136 are coaxial with 122,124 of the insulating plates 104. The electrode portion 130 also definesa central fastener aperture 138. Each electrode assembly 102 also has aninlet insulating grommet 140 disposed in the inlet aperture 134, anoutlet insulating grommet 142 disposed in the outlet aperture 136 and afastener aperture insulating grommet 144 disposed in the fasteneraperture 138. The grommets 140, 142, 144 cover the edge of the electrodeportion 130 that defines their corresponding apertures 134, 136 and 138.Each electrode assembly 102 also has a insulating band 146 disposedaround the electrode portion 130. The insulating band 146 covers theedge of the electrode portion 130 that defines its perimeter. Theconnector portion 132 extends from the perimeter of the electrodeportion 130 through the insulating band 146.

The plate 128 can be made of any suitable electrode material. Examplesof electrode material include, but are not limited to, carbon ornano-carbon doped plastic, platinum, rubidium, nickel, and titaniumsubstrates. It is also contemplated that the plate 128 could be made ofa material coated with an electrode material, such as, but not limitedto, mixed metal oxide. In the present implementation, the plate 128 ismade from stainless steel via a stamping or sintering process. The plate128 has a rough surface finish in order to increase the surface area forthe electrolysis process. It is contemplated the plate 128 could have asmooth surface finish.

The grommets 140, 142, 144 and the band 146 are made of a dielectricmaterial such as an elastomer and most plastics. In the presentimplementation, the grommets 140, 142 are integral with the band 146,but it is contemplated that they could be separate. In the presentimplementation, the grommets 140, 142, 144 and the band 146 are allformed on the plate 128 during an overmolding process. It iscontemplated that the grommet 144 could be formed separately from thegrommets 140, 142 and the band 146 and then be manually or mechanicallyinserted in the fastener aperture 138. It is also contemplated that thegrommets 140, 142 and the band 146 could be molded and then be manuallyor mechanically attached to the plate 128. It is also contemplated thatthe grommets 140, 142, 144 and the band 146 could be bonded or welded tothe plate 128. As they are made from dielectric material, the grommets140, 142, 144 and the band 146, which cover the edges of the plate 128,help reduce the previously mentioned problem of leakage current.

The thickness of the inlet and outlet insulating grommets 140, 142 issmaller than the thickness of the insulating band 146. As a result, whenthe electrode assemblies 102 are stacked, as can be seen in FIG. 5, theinsulating bands 146 of adjacent electrode assemblies 102 abut eachother but adjacent grommets 140 are space apart and adjacent grommets142 are spaced apart. The thickness of the fastener aperture insulatinggrommet 144 is the same as the thickness of the insulating band 146. Asa result, when the electrode assemblies 102 are stacked, as can be seenin FIG. 5, the fastener aperture insulating grommets 144 of adjacentelectrode assemblies 102 abut each other. The fastener apertureinsulating grommets 144 located at both ends of the stack of electrodeassemblies 102 also abut the insulating plates 104. As a result, thefastener aperture insulating grommets 144 increase the rigidity of thestack of electrode assemblies 102 allowing thinner plates 128 to beused, thereby allowing for a more compact generator 100.

The electrode assemblies 102 are stacked such that the inlet apertures134 are coaxial with each other, the outlet apertures 136 are coaxialwith each other, and the fastener apertures 138 are coaxial with eachother. Also, the electrode assemblies 102 are stacked such that theconnector portions 132 of adjacent electrode assemblies 102 are locatedalong different sides of the stack of electrode assemblies 102. In thepresent implementation, the connector portions 132 of the electrodeassemblies 102 disposed at the ends and the center of the stack aredisposed along a lateral side of the stack of electrode assemblies 102and the two connector portions 132 of the other two electrode assemblies102 are disposed along a top of the stack of electrode assemblies 102.The three side connector portions 132 are connected to one pole of thepower drive 26 and the three top connector portions 132 are connected tothe other pole of the power drive 26. It is contemplated that theconnector portions 132 could be disposed on opposite sides (see theimplementation of FIG. 9), on a same side, or on more than two sides(see the implementation of FIG. 22) of the stack of electrode assemblies102. It is also contemplated that each plate 128 could have more thanone connector portion 132 (see the implementation of FIG. 22). It isalso contemplated that only the two electrode assemblies 102 at the endof the stack of electrode assemblies 102 could have connector portions132 should the generator 100 be connected in series to the power drive26.

Once the electrode assemblies 102 are stacked, they are disposed betweenthe plates 104, and then between the endplates 106. A single fastener,in the form of a bolt 148, is inserted through the apertures 114, 126and 138. As can be seen in FIG. 4, at one end, a washer 150 is placedbetween the head of the bolt 148 and the flange 116 of the correspondingendplate 106. At the other end, a washer 152 is placed between a nut 154fastened onto the bolt 148 and the flange 116 of the correspondingendplate 106. Tightening the nut 154 squeezes the electrode assemblies102, the insulating plates 104 and the endplates 106 together. No otherfastener is required to hold the electrode assemblies 102, theinsulating plates 104 and the endplates 106 together.

It is contemplated that prior art generators using electrodes withgaskets between each pair of electrodes could be modified to have asingle fastener aperture in each electrode and gaskets between theelectrodes around each fastener aperture, thus allowing a singlefastener to be used to hold the stack of electrodes together. Endplatesand insulating plates could be modified accordingly to also be connectedvia the single fastener.

As a result, the insulating bands 146 are compressed against each otherand act as sealing members preventing electrolyte solution inside thegenerator 100 to leak out of the generator 100 via the sides of thestack of electrode assemblies 102. Similarly, the fastener apertureinsulating grommets 144 are compressed against each other and act assealing members preventing electrolyte solution inside the generator 100to leak out of the generator 100 via the fastener apertures 138 of thestack of electrode assemblies 102. The fastener aperture insulatinggrommets 144 also prevent current applied to the plates 128 to flow tothe bolt 148.

As can be seen in FIG. 5, an electrolysis chamber 156 is formed betweeneach adjacent pair of electrode portions 130, insulating bands 146 andfastener aperture insulating grommets 144. In the illustratedimplementation, as there are five electrode assemblies, fourelectrolysis chambers 156 as formed. The electrolysis chambers 156 arefilled with electrolyte solution and when current is applied to theconnector portion 132, the generator 100 generates hydrogen and oxygeninside each electrolysis chamber 156.

As can be seen in FIGS. 3 to 5, at one end of the generator 100, a hoseconnector 158 is inserted into the aperture 108 of the endplate 106 andthreaded into the aperture 122 of the insulating plate 104 which arealigned with the inlet apertures 134 of the electrode assemblies 102. Atthe other end of the generator 100, a plug 160 is inserted into theaperture 108 of the endplate 106 and threaded into the aperture 122 ofthe insulating plate 104 which are aligned with the inlet apertures 134of the electrode assemblies 102. The hose connector 158 is connected tothe pump 20 via a hose (not shown) to supply electrolyte solution insidethe generator 100. From the hose connector 158, the electrolyte solutionflows through the various inlet apertures 134 and into the variouselectrolysis chambers 156 via the spaces between the inlet aperturegrommets 140.

At the end of the generator 100 where the plug 160 is located, a hoseconnector 162 is inserted into the aperture 110 of the endplate 106 andthreaded into the aperture 124 of the insulating plate 104 which arealigned with the outlet apertures 136 of the electrode assemblies 102.At the other end of the generator 100, a plug 164 is inserted into theaperture 110 of the endplate 106 and threaded into the aperture 124 ofthe insulating plate 104 which are aligned with the outlet apertures 136of the electrode assemblies 102. From the electrolysis chambers 156, theelectrolyte solution, the hydrogen gas, the oxygen gas and the watervapor flow via the spaces between the outlet aperture grommets 142through the various outlet apertures 134 to the hose connector 162. Fromthe hose connector 162, the electrolyte solution, the hydrogen gas, theoxygen gas and the water vapor flow via a hose (not shown) back to thereservoir 12.

It is contemplated that both hose connectors 158, 162 could be disposedat the same end of the generator 100 and that both plugs 160, 164 couldbe disposed at the other end of the generator 100. It is alsocontemplated that instead of providing plugs 160, 164, the correspondingholes 122, 124 in the insulating plates 104 could be omitted, in whichcase the corresponding holes 108, 110 in the endplates 106 could beomitted.

Turning now to FIGS. 9 to 45, alternative implementations of the system10, the generator 100 and the electrode assembly 102 will be described.For simplicity, elements of the alternative implementations of thesystem 10, the generator 100 and the electrode assembly 102 describedbelow and shown in these figures which are similar to those of thesystem 10, the generator 100 and the electrode assembly 102 describedabove and shown in FIGS. 1 to 8 have been labeled with the samereference numerals and will not be described again in detail. Also forsimplicity, elements of the various implementations described below havebeen labeled with the same reference numerals.

Turning now to FIGS. 9 to 11, a stack of electrode assemblies 200 willbe described. The stack of electrode assemblies 200 could be used in thegenerator 100 instead of the stack of electrode assemblies 102. In theelectrode assemblies 200, the fastener aperture insulating grommets 144and the insulating bands 146 have been replaced with fastener apertureinsulating grommets 202 and insulating bands 204 respectively.

As best seen in FIG. 10, each fastener aperture insulating grommet 202has two ribs 206 extending from one side thereof and two ribs 208extending from another side thereof which are offset from the ribs 206.As a result, as can be seen in FIG. 10, the ribs 206, 208 of adjacentfastener insulating grommets 202 interlock when the electrode assemblies200 are stacked. It is contemplated that only one rib 208 to be receivedbetween two ribs 206 could be provided. It is contemplated that only onerib 206 and only one rib 208 or that more than two ribs 206 and morethan two ribs 208 could be provided. It is also contemplated that theribs 206, 208 could not be offset from each other such that when theelectrode assemblies 200 are stacked the ribs 206, 208 of adjacentfastener insulating grommets 202 abut each other.

As best seen in FIG. 11, each insulating band 204 has four ribs 210extending from one side thereof and four ribs 212 extending from anotherside thereof which are offset from the ribs 210. As a result, as can beseen in FIG. 11, the ribs 210, 212 of adjacent insulating bands 204interlock when the electrode assemblies 200 are stacked. It iscontemplated that only three ribs 212 to be received between four ribs210 could be provided. It is contemplated that less than four ribs 210and less than four ribs 212 or that more than four ribs 210 and morethan four ribs 210 could be provided.

As shown in the implementation shown in FIG. 13, the ribs 210, 212 couldnot be offset from each other such that when the electrode assemblies200 are stacked the ribs 210, 212 of adjacent insulating bands 204 abuteach other.

As can be seen in FIGS. 10 to 12, the plate 128 of each electrodeassembly 200 has a plurality of apertures 214 defined along a perimeterof the electrode portion 130 and along the perimeter of each aperture134, 136, 138. The apertures 214 are provided such that during theovermolding process used to form the grommets 140, 142 and 202 and theband 204, the dielectric material flows into the apertures 214 as can beseen in FIGS. 10 and 11, thereby permanently connecting the grommets140, 142 and 202 and the band 204 to the plate 128.

Turning now to FIGS. 14 to 20, an electrode assembly 300 and a stackthereof will be described. The stack of electrode assemblies 300 couldbe used in the generator 100 instead of the stack of electrodeassemblies 102. In the electrode assembly 300, the grommets 140 and 142are provided with protrusions 302 of both sides thereof. Should thestack of electrode assemblies 300 be over compressed, the protrusions ofadjacent grommets 140 and adjacent grommets 142 will abut each other,thus ensuring that passages will still be provided between adjacentgrommets 140 for the passage of electrolyte solution into theelectrolysis chambers 156 and between adjacent grommets 142 for thepassage of electrolyte solution, hydrogen gas, oxygen gas and watervapor from the electrolysis chambers 156.

The electrode assembly 300 also has an insulating band 304. As can beseen, the insulating band 300 has four lips 210, 212 on each sidethereof. On each side of the insulating band 304, apertures 306 areprovided between the innermost three ribs 210, 212 and the outermostribs 210, 212. The apertures 306 result from the clamps used during theovermolding process used to form the band 304 and the grommets 140, 142and 202. It is contemplated that all or some of the apertures 306 couldbe filled with a hard dielectric insert insuring proper spacing of theelectrode assemblies. As can be seen in FIG. 20, the innermost threeribs 210, 212 are offset from each other so as to interlock with theinnermost three ribs 210, 212 of the adjacent electrode assemblies 300and the outermost ribs 210, 212 are aligned with each other so as toabut the outermost ribs 210, 212 of the adjacent electrode assemblies300.

FIG. 21 illustrates an electrode assembly 400 having four fastenerapertures 138. Accordingly, the electrode assembly 400 has four fasteneraperture grommets 144. Although not shown, a generator having a stack ofelectrode assemblies 400 has four apertures 114 in each endplate 106,four apertures 126 in each insulating plate 104, four bolts 148 and fournuts 154.

FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate a stack of electrode assemblies 500. Theelectrode portion 130 of each plate 128 is circular and each plate 128has two connector portions 132 disposed at 90 degrees from each other.Each electrode assembly 500 has six fastener apertures 138, two inletapertures 134 and two outlet apertures 136. Accordingly, each electrodeassembly 500 has six fastener aperture grommets 144, two inletinsulating grommets 140 and two outlet insulating grommets. Although notshown, a generator having the stack of electrode assemblies 500 has sixapertures 114 in each endplate 106, six apertures 126 in each insulatingplate 104, six bolts 148 and six nuts 154. Such a generator also has twoapertures 108 and two apertures 110 in each endplate 106, two apertures122 and two apertures 124 in each insulating plates 104, two hoseconnectors 158, two plugs 160, two hose connectors 162 and two plugs164.

FIG. 24 illustrates a hydrogen and oxygen generation system 600. Thesystem 600 has a generator 602 having two inlets 22 and two outlets 28.The generator 602 separates the generated hydrogen gas from thegenerated oxygen gas. The hydrogen gas exits the generator 602 via oneoutlet 28 and the oxygen gas exits the generator 602 via the otheroutlet 28.

The system 600 has a reservoir 604 defining two volumes 606. One of thevolumes 606 receives the hydrogen gas and the other volume 606 receivesthe oxygen gas. Keeping the level of electrolyte solution in thereservoir 604 above common portion 608 of the two volumes 606 ensuresthat the hydrogen and oxygen gases do not mix in the reservoir 604. Thehydrogen and oxygen gases each flow out of their corresponding volumes606 via a corresponding gas outlet 32. The hydrogen and oxygen gasesthen flow through their own set of components 34, 38 and 40.

FIGS. 25 to 32 illustrate a generator 700 suitable for use with thesystem 600 instead of the generator 602. The generator 700 has a stackof electrode assemblies 702 to be connected in parallel to the powerdrive 26 (i.e. the connector portions 132 are alternately connected tothe positive and the negative poles of the power drive 26). Thegenerator 700 has two apertures 108 and two apertures 110 in eachendplate 106, two apertures 122 and two apertures 124 in each insulatingplates 104 (not shown in FIG. 25), two hose connectors 158, two plugs160 (not shown), two hose connectors 162 and two plugs 164 (not shown).

Each electrode assembly 702 two inlet apertures 134 and two outletapertures 136. Each electrode assembly 702 has an inlet insulatinggrommet 704 disposed one inlet aperture 134, an inlet insulating grommet706 disposed in the other inlet aperture 134, an outlet insulatinggrommet 708 disposed one outlet aperture 136 and an outlet insulatinggrommet 710 disposed in the other outlet aperture 136. The grommets 704and 708 are disposed diagonally across from each other and areidentical. The grommets 706 and 710 are disposed diagonally across fromeach other and are identical. The grommets 704 and 708 have the samethickness as the insulating band 146. The grommets 706 and 710 arethinner than the insulating band 146 and define grooves to permit thepassage of electrolyte solution (grommets 706) or electrolyte solutionand hydrogen gas or oxygen gas, as the case may be (grommets 710).

As can be seen in FIGS. 25, 31 and 32, each electrode assembly 702 isflipped front-to-back from the electrode assembly 702 that is next to itin the stack of electrode assemblies 702. As a result, the grommets 704,706 alternate along the stack at the bottom of the stack and thegrommets 708, 710 alternate along the stack at the top of the stack.

A membrane 712 is disposed between each pair of adjacent electrodeassemblies 702. Each membrane 712 has five apertures 714, each one ofwhich is coaxial with one of the apertures 134, 136 and 138. Thegrommets 704 and 708 and the insulating bands 146 have notches toreceive the membranes 712. The membranes 712 separate each electrolysischamber 156 into two portions A, B. The membranes 712 are pure polymeror composite proton exchange membranes. One example of membrane 712 isthe DuPont™ Nafion® PFSA membrane. Due to the parallel connection of theelectrode assemblies 702, one of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas will formin the portions A of the electrolysis chambers 156 and the other of thehydrogen gas and oxygen gas will form in the portions B of theelectrolysis chamber 156. The membranes 712 prevent the hydrogen andoxygen gases from mixing in the electrolysis chambers 156. Due to thearrangement of the grommets 708, 710 described above, the flow ofhydrogen and oxygen gases out of the generator 700 remain fluidlyseparate from each other and the hydrogen gas flows out of one of thehose connectors 162 and the oxygen gas flows out of the other hoseconnector 162.

FIGS. 33A to 35B illustrate a generator 800 suitable for use with thesystem 600 instead of the generator 602. The generator 800 has a stackof electrode assemblies 802 to be connected in series to the power drive26 (i.e. the connector portion 132 of the electrode assembly 802 at oneend of the stack is connected to the positive pole of the power drive26, the connector portion 132 of the electrode assembly 802 at the otherend of the stack is connected to the negative pole of the power drive 26and the other electrode assemblies 802 have no connection to the powerdrive 26). The generator 800 has two apertures 108 and two apertures 110in each endplate 106, two apertures 122 and two apertures 124 in eachinsulating plates 104, two hose connectors 158, two plugs 160, two hoseconnectors 162 and two plugs 164.

Each electrode assembly 802 two inlet apertures 134 and two outletapertures 136. Each electrode assembly 802 has an inlet insulatinggrommet 804 disposed one inlet aperture 134, an inlet insulating grommet806 disposed in the other inlet aperture 134, an outlet insulatinggrommet 808 disposed one outlet aperture 136 and an outlet insulatinggrommet 810 disposed in the other outlet aperture 136. The grommets 804and 808 are disposed diagonally across from each other and areidentical. The grommets 806 and 810 are disposed diagonally across fromeach other and are identical. The grommets 804 and 808 have the definegrooves on one side (FIG. 33B) to permit the passage of electrolytesolution (grommets 804) or electrolyte solution and hydrogen gas oroxygen gas, as the case may be (grommets 808) and have no groove on theother side (FIG. 33A) to prevent the passage of fluid. The grommets 806and 810 define grooves (FIG. 33A) on the side opposite to the grooves ofthe grommets 804, 808 to permit the passage of electrolyte solution(grommets 806) or electrolyte solution and hydrogen gas or oxygen gas,as the case may be (grommets 810) and have no groove on the other side(FIG. 33B) to prevent the passage of fluid.

A membrane 712 is disposed between each pair of adjacent electrodeassemblies 802. Due to the series connection of the electrode assemblies802, one of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas will form in the portions A ofthe electrolysis chambers 156 and the other of the hydrogen gas andoxygen gas will form in the portions B of the electrolysis chamber 156.The membranes 712 prevent the hydrogen and oxygen gases from mixing inthe electrolysis chambers 156. Due to the arrangement of the grommets808, 810 described above, the flow of hydrogen and oxygen gases out ofthe generator 800 remain fluidly separate from each other and thehydrogen gas flows out of one of the hose connectors 162 and the oxygengas flows out of the other hose connector 162.

FIG. 36 illustrates a hydrogen and oxygen generation system 900. Thesystem 900 has a generator 902 having two inlets 22 and two outlets 28.The generator 902 separates the generated hydrogen gas from thegenerated oxygen gas. The generator 902 is air cooled. To cool theelectrolyte solution flowing through the generator 902, an air blower904 blows air into the generator 902 via an air inlet 906. The air flowsover cooling fins similar to those of the electrode assemblies 1006described below. The cooling fins are extensions of the electrodeportions and pass through the insulating bands of the electrodeassemblies. The electrode portions of the electrode assemblies draw heatfrom the electrolyte solution; this heat is transferred to the coolingfins and the air flowing over the cooling fins draw heat therefrom,thereby cooling the electrolyte solution. The heated air then flows outof the generator 902 via an air outlet 908.

FIGS. 37 to 39 illustrate an air cooled generator 1000 having a singleinlet for the electrolyte solution and a single outlet for theelectrolyte solution, the hydrogen gas, the oxygen gas and the watervapor. The generator 1000 has two endplates 1002 made of dielectricmaterial, therefore insulating plates are not required. A housing 1004is disposed between the two endplates 1002. A stack of electrodeassemblies 1006 is disposed between the endplates 1002 and is housedinside the housing 1004. The housing 1004 defines an air inlet 1008 tobe connected to an air blower and an air outlet 1010. Each electrodeassembly 1006 has a cooling fin portion 1012 disposed around theelectrode portion 130 and connected thereto. The insulating band 146 isdisposed between the electrode portion 130 and the cooling fin portion1012. The cooling fin portions 1012 are used to connect the electrodeassemblies 1006 to the power drive 26. Air enters the housing 1004 viathe air inlet 1008, flows over the fin portions 1012 and leaves thehousing via the air outlet 1010.

FIG. 40 illustrates a hydrogen and oxygen generation system 1100. Thesystem 1100 has a generator 1102 having two inlets 22 and two outlets28. The generator 1102 separates the generated hydrogen gas from thegenerated oxygen gas. The generator 1102 is water cooled. To cool theelectrolyte solution flowing through the generator 1102, a pump 1104draws coolant from a radiator 1106 through the generator 1102 to coolthe electrolyte solution and pumps the coolant back to the radiator 1106to cool the coolant. The coolant flows through a coolant passage definedby the electrode assemblies of the generator 1102 that is fluidlyseparate from the electrolysis chambers 156 so as not to mix with theelectrolyte solution.

FIGS. 41 to 45 illustrate a water cooled generator 1200 having a singleinlet for the electrolyte solution and a single outlet for theelectrolyte solution, the hydrogen gas, the oxygen gas and the watervapor. The generator 1200 has two endplates 1202 made of dielectricmaterial, therefore insulating plates are not required. Each endplate1202 has an aperture below the fastener 148 to receive a hose connector1204. One of the hose connector 1204 is connected to a pump (like pump1104) and the other hose connector 1204 is connected to a radiator (likeradiator 1106). The generator 1200 has a stack of electrode assemblies1206 disposed between the endplates 1202. Each electrode assembly 1206has a sealing grommet 1208 made of dielectric material disposed aroundthe grommet 144. A plurality of apertures 1210 are formed in the annularportion of the electrode portion 130 disposed between the grommets 144and 1208. As can be seen in FIG. 43, the sealing grommets 1208 abut eachother and, as previously explained, the grommets 144 also abut eachother. As a result, an annular coolant passage 1212 is formed betweenthe grommets 144 and 1208 which allows coolant to flow through thegenerator 1200 from one connector 1204 to the other connector 1204 andthat is fluidly separate from the electrolysis chambers 156. The coolantabsorbs heat from the annular portion of the electrode portion 130disposed between the grommets 144 and 1208 as it flows though thecoolant passage 1212.

Modifications and improvements to the above-described implementations ofthe present technology may become apparent to those skilled in the art.The foregoing description is intended to be exemplary rather thanlimiting. The scope of the present technology is therefore intended tobe limited solely by the scope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An electrode assembly for a hydrogen and oxygengenerator comprising: a plate defining an electrode portion, theelectrode portion having a perimeter, the electrode portion defining aninlet aperture and an outlet aperture; an inlet insulating grommetdisposed in the inlet aperture and covering an edge of the electrodeportion defining the inlet aperture; an outlet insulating grommetdisposed in the outlet aperture and covering an edge of the electrodeportion defining the outlet aperture; and an insulating band disposedaround the electrode portion and covering an edge of the electrodeportion defining the perimeter.
 2. The electrode assembly of claim 1,wherein the inlet insulating grommet, the outlet insulating grommet andthe insulating band are integral.
 3. The electrode assembly of claim 1,wherein the outlet aperture is disposed closer to an upper end of theelectrode portion than the inlet aperture.
 4. The electrode assembly ofclaim 3, wherein: the electrode portion is generally rectangular; andthe inlet and outlet apertures are disposed at diagonally oppositecorners of the electrode portion.
 5. The electrode assembly of claim 1,wherein the plate has a connector portion, the connector portionextending from the electrode portion, the connector portion extendingthrough the insulating band.
 6. The electrode assembly of claim 1,wherein: a thickness of the insulating band is greater than a thicknessof at least a portion of the inlet insulating grommet; and the thicknessof the insulating band is greater than a thickness of at least a portionthe outlet insulating grommet.
 7. The electrode assembly of claim 1,wherein: the plate has a first face and a second face; the insulatingband has a first face disposed a first distance from the first face ofthe plate and a second face disposed a second distance from the secondface of the plate; the inlet insulating grommet has a first facedisposed a third distance from the first face of the plate and a secondface disposed a fourth distance from the second face of the plate; theoutlet insulating grommet has a first face disposed a fifth distancefrom the first face of the plate and a second face disposed a sixthdistance from the second face of the plate; the first distance isgreater than the third and fifth distances; and the second distance isgreater than the fourth and sixth distances.
 8. The electrode assemblyof claim 1, wherein the insulating band has at least one first ribextending away from a first face of the plate and at least one secondrib extending away from a second face of the plate.
 9. The electrodeassembly of claim 1, wherein the electrode portion defines at least onefastener aperture configured to receive a fastener therethrough; and theelectrode assembly further comprises at least one fastener apertureinsulating grommet disposed in the at least one fastener aperture, eachof the at least one fastener aperture insulating grommet covering anedge of the electrode portion defining a corresponding one of the atleast one fastener aperture.
 10. The electrode assembly of claim 9,wherein the at least one fastener aperture is a single fastener apertureand the at least one fastener aperture insulating grommet is a singlefastener aperture insulating grommet.
 11. The electrode assembly ofclaim 10, wherein the single fastener aperture is defined at a center ofthe electrode portion.
 12. The electrode assembly of claim 9, wherein athickness of the insulating band and a thickness of the at least onefastener aperture insulating grommet are equal.
 13. The electrodeassembly of claim 1, wherein: the outlet aperture is a first outletaperture; the electrode portion defines a second outlet aperture; andthe outlet insulating grommet is a first outlet insulating grommet; theelectrode assembly further comprising a second outlet insulating grommetdisposed in the second outlet aperture and covering an edge of theelectrode portion defining the second outlet aperture.
 14. The electrodeassembly of claim 13, wherein: the inlet aperture is a first inletaperture; the electrode portion defines a second inlet aperture; and theinlet insulating grommet is a first inlet insulating grommet; theelectrode assembly further comprising a second inlet insulating grommetdisposed in the second inlet aperture and covering an edge of theelectrode portion defining the second inlet aperture.
 15. A hydrogen andoxygen generator comprising: first and second endplates; at least twoelectrode assemblies, the at least two electrode assemblies defining anelectrolysis chamber therebetween, the at least two electrodesassemblies being disposed between the first and second endplates; and atleast one fastener connecting the first endplate to the second endplate,each of the at least two electrode assemblies comprising: a platedefining an electrode portion, the electrode portion having a perimeter,the electrode portion defining an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture;an inlet insulating grommet disposed in the inlet aperture and coveringan edge of the electrode portion defining the inlet aperture; an outletinsulating grommet disposed in the outlet aperture and covering an edgeof the electrode portion defining the outlet aperture; and an insulatingband disposed around the electrode portion and covering an edge of theelectrode portion defining the perimeter, the insulating bands of the atleast two electrode assemblies abutting each other; the inlet and outletapertures of the at least two electrode assemblies fluidly communicatingwith the electrolysis chamber.
 16. The generator of claim 15, whereinthe at least two electrode assemblies is at least three electrodeassemblies disposed adjacent to each other in a pile; wherein each pairof adjacent electrode assemblies of the at least three electrodeassemblies defines an electrolysis chamber therebetween; and wherein theinsulating bands of each pair of adjacent electrode assemblies of the atleast three electrode assemblies abut each other.
 17. The generator ofclaim 15, further comprising: a first insulating plate disposed betweenthe first endplate and the at least two electrode assemblies; and asecond insulating plate disposed between the second endplate and the atleast two electrode assemblies, the first and second insulating platesbeing made of a dielectric material.
 18. The generator of claim 15,wherein, for each of the at least two electrode assemblies, the inletinsulating grommet, the outlet insulating grommet and the insulatingband are integral.
 19. The generator of claim 15, wherein for each ofthe at least two electrode assemblies: the electrode portion isgenerally rectangular; and the inlet and outlet apertures are disposedat diagonally opposite corners of the electrode portion.
 20. Thegenerator of claim 15, wherein for at least two of the at least twoelectrode assemblies: the plate has a connector portion; the connectorportion extends from the electrode portion; and the connector portionextends through the insulating band.
 21. The generator of claim 15,wherein for each of the at least two electrode assemblies: a thicknessof the insulating band is greater than a thickness of at least a portionof the inlet insulating grommet; and the thickness of the insulatingband is greater than a thickness of at least a portion the outletinsulating grommet.
 22. The generator of claim 15, wherein the first andsecond endplates each define a single fastener aperture; wherein foreach of the at least two electrode assemblies: the electrode portiondefines a single fastener aperture; and a fastener aperture insulatinggrommet is disposed in the fastener aperture and covers an edge of theelectrode portion defining the fastener aperture; wherein the fastenerapertures of the first and second endplates and of the at least twoelectrode assemblies are coaxial; and wherein the at least one fasteneris a single fastener passing through the fastener apertures of the firstand second endplates and of the at least two electrode assemblies forconnecting the first endplate, the second endplate and the at least twoelectrode assemblies together.
 23. The generator of claim 22, whereinthe fastener aperture insulating grommets of the at least two electrodeassemblies abut each other.
 24. A hydrogen and oxygen generation systemcomprising: the generator according to any one of claims 15 to 23; areservoir for storing an electrolyte solution; a pump for supplyingelectrolyte solution from the reservoir to the electrolysis chamber viaat least one inlet aperture; at least one outlet aperture being fluidlyconnected to the reservoir for supplying hydrogen, oxygen andelectrolyte solution to the reservoir from the electrolysis chamber, thereservoir having an outlet for supplying at least one of hydrogen andoxygen to a device; and a power source electrically connected to atleast two of the at least two electrode assemblies.
 25. The hydrogen andoxygen generation system of claim 24, wherein the generator furthercomprises a housing disposed between the first and second endplates, theat least two electrode assemblies being housed in the housing, thehousing defining an air inlet and an air outlet; wherein the plate ofeach of the at least two electrode assemblies further comprises acooling fin portion; wherein for each of the at least two electrodeassemblies the insulating band is disposed between the electrode portionand the cooling fin portion; and the hydrogen and oxygen generationsystem further comprises an air blower fluidly connected to the airinlet for blowing air inside the housing, the air flowing over thecooling fins and exiting the housing via the air outlet.
 26. Thehydrogen and oxygen generation system of claim 24, wherein the plate ofeach of the at least two electrodes defines at least one coolantaperture; wherein the coolant apertures fluidly communicate with eachother to define a coolant passage, the coolant passage being fluidlyseparate from the electrolysis chamber; and the hydrogen and oxygengeneration system further comprises a coolant pump for supplying coolantto the coolant passage.
 27. A hydrogen and oxygen generator comprising:a first endplate defining a single fastener aperture; a second endplatedefining a single fastener aperture; at least two electrodes, the atleast two electrode defining an electrolysis chamber therebetween, theat least two electrodes being disposed between the first and secondendplates, each of the at least two electrodes defining: an inletaperture; an outlet aperture; and a single fastener aperture, the inletand outlet apertures of the at least two electrodes fluidlycommunicating with the electrolysis chamber, the fastener apertures ofthe first and second endplates and of the at least two electrodes beingcoaxial; at least one sealing element disposed between each a pair ofadjacent electrodes of the at least two electrodes; and a singlefastener passing through the fastener apertures of the first and secondendplates and of the at least two electrodes for connecting the firstendplate, the second endplate and the at least two electrodes together.28. The generator of claim 27, wherein the single fastener is a solemeans for connecting the first endplate, the second endplate and the atleast two electrodes together.
 29. The generator of claim 27, whereinthe fastener apertures of the first and second endplates and of the atleast two electrodes are disposed in a center of the first and secondendplates and of the at least two electrodes.
 30. The generator of claim27, wherein each electrode has a fastener aperture insulating grommetdisposed in the single fastener aperture.
 31. The generator of claim 30,wherein the fastener aperture insulating grommets of the at least twoelectrode abut each other.